Special and Regional Collections

Special Collections & University Archives is home to Sonoma State University Library's rare books, archives, and manuscript collections. We provide a vibrant, interactive place to conduct research, engage in classes using original sources, and view changing exhibitions. We commit to a concerted focus on voices, knowledge, and memory-making practices historically excluded from the archival record.

Special Collections have significant historical value and the items in each collection are worthy of permanent preservation. Books, photographs, personal letters, periodicals, media, and artifacts are included. The emphasis of Special Collections in the Sonoma State University Library is on the history, people, and culture of the North Bay region of California, but some collections cover a wide range of subjects.

Explore our collections

You can explore our digital and print collections by topic, or just browse an A-Z list. 

What are special collections?

Find out more about accessing and using special collections. 

Make an appointment

Many of our collections can be viewed by appointment only. If you want to use one of our print collections, contact us and make an appointment online.